The Olympic Games are a global celebration of athletic excellence and unity, but they are also a major enterprise with significant intellectual property (IP) considerations. The symbols, logos, mascots, and even the term “Olympic” itself are protected under international and national laws to prevent unauthorised use. This extensive protection ensures that the unique identity and values of the Olympics are preserved, allowing the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and affiliated organizations to control and manage the commercial aspects of the Games. Understanding the scope of these IP rights is crucial for businesses, media, and individuals looking to engage with the Olympics, as misuse can lead to legal consequences.
One of the most recognisable trademarks in the world is the Olympic symbol. Using the term “Olympic,” the Olympic rings, or any other Olympic property commercially, require permission from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which owns the intellectual property rights to these terms and symbols. It is, however, acceptable for private individuals to use the word “Olympic” in everyday speech or in writing, because the owner of a trademark is only able to restrict specific commercial uses of that mark.
When was the Olympic Flag Designed?
Led by the Frenchman Baron de Coubertin, the Olympic flag was designed in 1913, and was first raised at the Pan-Egyptian Games in Alexandria, Egypt, in 1914. It was designed to have the colors blue, black, red, yellow and green, that are found in many other flags globally.
Who Owns The Trademark For “Go For The Gold”?
GO FOR THE GOLD is a trademark of the United States Olympic Committee, and was filed on December 8th, 2011. The terms OLYMPIC, GO FOR THE GOLD, TEAM USA, and the Olympic rings themselves, are all protected by multiple federal trademarks held by the USOC.
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games
Marks expressly associated with the host city of the Olympic Games 2024 were registered far in advance of the event; for instance, the phrase “PARIS 2024” and other marks that combine it were filed as early as 2016 – 2017, the majority of which were previously registered. In order to avoid cybersquatting, domain names like “paris2024.org” were also registered well in advance.
“Golden” Intellectual Property Rights
Strong intellectual property rights safeguard the Olympic Games, and the majority of the names and symbols connected to the Olympic Events benefit from special protection. This protection includes the use of confusingly similar marks that may cause confusion or a misrepresentation.